Howe to Arsenal: Operation ‘replacing Wenger’

Bournemouth are not just keeping their heads above water in the Premier League. They’re excelling. Eddie Howe is performing annual miracles on the south coast. He’s probably the most exciting young English manager in the game. Rumours have started over the possibility of him replacing Wenger. With Arsene’s time at the Emirates looking numbered, is it time for Eddie Howe to replace him?

By ‘John Turner’

Arsenal fans may rue the day Wenger steps down. The style of football has won plaudits and praise from neutrals all over the world. However, Eddie Howe could ensure that the beautiful game stays beautiful if he were to take over at Arsenal. The Bournemouth man believes in a passing game that would please the fans at his new home.

Howe to Arsenal: Limited funds

Stan Kroenke doesn’t want to sell. He owns five sports franchises. They nearly all underachieve but he’s not looking to handover his majority shareholding to Usmanov. Even if the bid is 1.3 billion, or perhaps more. Wenger has never complained about not having funds. Howe would not mind working under certain financial constraints, as well. He’s brought the Cherries up from League Two to the Premier League by primarily signing bargains.

Defensive frailties

One area of concern under an Arsenal managed by Howe would be the defence. Bournemouth conceded nearly 70 goals this season. Arsenal have the worst defensive record of the top 6. Steve Bould, if he sticks around, would need to improve Arsenal’s defensive strength. Howe would have better defenders at his disposal so you would expect an improvement, but would it be enough?

Howe to Arsenal: The Energy

When Arsene Wenger arrived at Highbury in the mid nineties, he singlehandedly helped reshape the English game. Bringing enthusiasm and a new outlook, fans warmed to his exciting brand of football, promising signings and even improving the diets of players. He was positive, with a glass half full approach. That same glass is now long broken. Howe would bring a new energy to the position, which should reflect on the players.

A question of loyalty

Howe has previously left Bournemouth. After getting the Cherries promoted to league One, he accepted a move to Burnley. His new side finished the season strongly before ending up 13th the next year. After less than two years in the Burnley, Howe quit his new post and returned to Bournemouth in the division below. His love for his current club appears to know no bounds. The fans worship him. Would he want to leave that for the hot seat at Arsenal?

Howe to Arsenal: Could it happen?

The rumour mill is already going in to overdrive. Wenger is a legend of the game. Does he still have the passion and energy to continue in the role? New levels of abuse have been directed at him during this season. He might have had enough. Would the Bournemouth manager be a suitable replacement? Let us know by voting in the poll below: [democracy id=”31"]